Peninsula Preparatory Academy Opens In Far Rockaway

By Miriam Rosenberg Contributing Editor

By Miriam RosenbergContributing Editor

Some of those joining New York City School’s Chancellor Joel Klein (in the middle) as he cuts the ribbon to officially open the new school are, from left, Dr. Kathleen Cashin (Region Five Superintendent), Ed Williams (representing Congressman Gregory Meeks), Gwen McEvilley (Principal of the Peninsula Preparatory Academy), State Senator Malcolm Smith, Chancellor Klein, The Rev. Floyd Flake and Dennis Walcott (Deputy Mayor for Education).
Photos by Miriam Rosenberg
The Peninsula Preparatory Academy Charter School, housed in Middle School 53 in Far Rockaway, had its official opening on October 14. Among those attending the ribbon cutting ceremony were New York City School’s Chancellor Joel Klein, Dr. Kathleen Cashin (Region Five Superintendent) and State Senator Malcolm Smith.

Students from the second grade are led in a special greeting for those attending the opening by one of their teacher, Mr. Miller.
“There is a passion about these kids here and creating a life for them that is different than the life that we have failed to create for too many other children in a community like this,” said Klein, who expects great things from the academy.

Smith, who helped spearhead the new school, spoke with The Wave.

Peninsula Preparatory Academy’s principal, Gwen McEvilley, talks about the new school shortly before the ribbon is cut. State Senator Malcolm Smith is to her left.
“This is the dawning of an entire new era in educating the children in the Rockaways, and especially those who tend to get caught up in special education – don’t get their focus,” said Smith. “It’s a dawning that says we are going to take back control of education over our children.”

The academy’s principal, Gwen McEvilley, talked about the school.

“We’re doing enrichment programs, we’re introducing a banking piece for our children, as well as having photography and all the rest of the academics,” McEvilley said.

State Senator Malcolm Smith looks on as second-grader Andi West greets New York City School’s Chancellor Joel Klein. West was among several students who handed out programs and welcomed guests as they arrived.

The Wave visited Mrs. DeZonie’s class during a lesson on the alphabet and spelling.